25.02.2019
Rathmichael Parish Bids Farewell to Long Serving Rector
There was standing room only in Rathmichael Parish Church yesterday (Sunday February 24) as parishioners, friends and well wishers flocked to say farewell to their Rector of almost 27 years. Canon Fred Appelbe presided at his final service as Rector of Rathmichael before retiring later this week.
In his sermon he said it had been a great privilege to serve the parish over the last 26 and a half years. There had been very many positive events, among them improvements at the parish school for which he thanked former Education Ministers, Niamh Breathnach and Mary Hanafin, who was present in the congregation.
Leading tributes to Canon Appelbe, parishioner Geoffrey Perrin, said the day was emotionally charged. He described Fred as a man of exceptional humanity. “He has been behind us, praying for us and he has led us. He has been our inspiration. He has been a friend in happy and fun times and a companion in times of sadness,” he said.
Anne Thompson, who has been Fred’s PA throughout his ministry paid tribute to Fred’s wife Sonia for her industry and innovation in support of the parish. She said she had become part of the rectory family, which includes Fred and Sonia’s daughters Debbie and Hayley.
On behalf of the parish, Rector’s Churchwarden, Richard Marshall, made a presentation to Fred and said it had been a pleasure to meet and talk to him every Sunday morning.
